Cancer Sign - Cancer Constellation

First all should notice how dim the stars are in this "small" Cancer Constellation. Look at the Star Map of Gemini or especially Leo with its many stars. However, the Cancer Constellation contains some stellar features of particular interest. Right in the center of the Crab is an Open Star Cluster called the Beehive Cluster. [M44 is also called the Latin Praesepe which means "Manger."] The famous Greek Astronomy Ptolemy in his Almagest called this Cluster "The Nebulous Mass in the Breast" (of Cancer). This Cluster of Stars can be seen with the other main stars. Note that all of the Stars in Cancer Constellation require a clear night away from city light to see with the naked eyes. [The Open Cluster of Stars is only about 600 light years away, closer than most Star Clusters.]

Another Open Star Cluster M67 is below the Southern Claw of Cancer, yet is too faint to see with the naked eyes.

What I find so amazing about the Cancer Constellation is its relationship to the Constellations of Canis Minor and Canis Major. Sirius is our brightest Visible Light Star. Sirius was a very important Goddess in Ancient Egypt [called Sothis or Sopdet] and related to Isis. [Orion related to Osiris.] Sirus and Procyon [our 7th Brightest Star] form a nice line to the Center of the Crab Constellation. According to this simple Astronomy, the clear connection of Sirius to the Center of Cancer Star Sign and its visible Beehive Star Cluster can enpower. 

Seeing the Crab image and then reading about the Beehive Star Cluster "in the breast" of the Cancer, should provide some clarity into the Astrological Personalities of those born in Cancer Sign. The ancient Greeks and Romans referred to the nebulous light of the star cluster as a "Manger." Astrologers claim that the Cancer Sign is the most feminine of all the Signs; in fact it can be difficult for some Cancer Men to come to terms with being a "Nurturing" "Homebody" type. Yes Cancer Personalities can enjoy to travel, yet like to return to a stable home.

Cancer personalities are very much connected to their feelings. The feelings control the mind. This can be a powerful asset when using physic, intuitive gifts, yet misunderstandings can lead to moody behaviors. The Cancer Sign is said to be “Ruled by the Moon” and is a Water Sign. [Pisces and Scorpio are the other Water Signs.] This connection to the Moon and Water often puts Cancer People at the mercy of the tides. The tides can wash up and down with the Moon and lunar influences. The Cancer Personality is very much affected by the “currents” of their environment. If people are happy, a Cancerian will be happy; likewise if the mood of the crowd is pensive, then this will have an impact.

At times feelings may not be understood. Passive moods may follow. Misunderstandings encourage a lack of clear direction. During uncertain times, the Crab can feel threatened, vulnerable, and resistant, seeking to close up at home, to retreat into the Shell. However like a Crab, the Cancer Personality can feel comfortable on land or in the water. This provides an excellent adaptivity to various situations.

With Cancer being a Motherly, Homely Sign that begins summer, there is a symbolic nine month incubation period until beginning the Zodiac Cycle with Aries. Cancer can be seen as a symbol of fecundation and conception.

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Cancer Personalities

[Cancer with Moon in Aries]

Kevin Bacon

Pamela Lee Anderson

[Cancer with Moon in Taurus]

Meryl Streep

Frida Kahlo

Lindsay Lohan

[Cancer with Moon in Gemini]

Henry David Thoreau

[Cancer with Moon in Cancer]

Tom Cruise

Harrison Ford

Courtney Love

[Cancer with Moon in Leo]

Tom Hanks

[Cancer with Moon in Virgo]

The Dalai Lama

[Cancer with Moon in Libra]

Twyla Tharp

[Cancer with Moon in Scorpio]

Rembrandt van Rijn

Gisele Bundchen

[Cancer with Moon in Sagittarius]

Rubén Blades

[Cancer with Moon in Capricorn]

John Glenn, Ernest Hemingway

[Cancer with Moon in Aquarius]

Princess Diana

[Cancer with Moon in Pisces]

Robin Williams

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Philip’s Atlas of the Universe, by Sir Patrick Moore, 2007

Stellarium Software (Version 0.62)